The State Government will change the law to give new life to retired racing greyhounds.
The current requirement in the Dog Act 1976 for retired racing greyhounds to be muzzled when in public will be removed next year.
Community consultation on the statutory review of the Dog Amendment Act 2013 was undertaken in mid-2019.
The State Government received 1,192 written submissions advocating for the removal of the requirement for retired racing greyhounds to be muzzled in public places. In addition, a 2,700 signature petition seeking an end to compulsory greyhound muzzling laws for pet greyhounds, was provided.
Changing the law will make greyhounds more desirable as pets and ensure a bright future for retired greyhounds.
Registered racing greyhounds will continue to be required to wear muzzles in all public places by application of the Greyhound Rules of Racing.
For more information on adoption and the proposed new laws which will remove muzzling requirements for pet greyhounds visit https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/greyhounds
As stated by Local Government Minister David Templeman:
“The State Government is committed to ensuring the welfare of all animals, including those that have been used in the racing industry.
“Removing the requirement for pet greyhounds to be muzzled in public places will improve the welfare of these animals and increase retired racing greyhound adoption.
“I encourage every Western Australian to consider adoption, whether this is a greyhound from a rehoming agency or a dog from an animal refuge, as an alternative to purchase when getting their next dog.”
